Owners of a seaside hotel in Tenby have submitted plans to convert it into short-term holiday let accommodation, arguing the change is necessary to secure its future in a changing tourism market.
Proposal Lodged with National Park
A planning application has been submitted to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park by Kyle Williams, based in Abergavenny, seeking approval for a change of use of The Hildebrand Hotel at 29 Victoria Street, located just off Tenby's Esplanade. The proposal would transform the property from a conventional hotel into a short-term holiday letting operation.
Reasons for the Change
A supporting statement accompanying the submission explains that the plan aims to “secure the continued viable use of the property through its operation as professionally managed holiday accommodation, providing high-quality visitor accommodation within the established tourism destination of Tenby.”
The statement highlights that the hospitality sector has faced significant operational challenges in recent years, including staffing pressures, rising energy costs, and shifting visitor preferences. The proposed model offers a more flexible approach to maintain the property’s long-term viability.
Building and Location
The Hildebrand Hotel is described as an established visitor accommodation property in one of Wales’ premier coastal tourism destinations. The building is well-suited for visitor accommodation, with existing infrastructure and guest facilities. No substantial external modifications are planned; the character, appearance, and scale of the building will remain unchanged.
The accommodation will be let on a short-term basis to tourists, supporting the local visitor economy while ensuring the building remains occupied, maintained, and economically viable.
No Significant Changes Proposed
The application states that no significant external alterations are proposed, and the development is not expected to result in unacceptable impacts on neighbouring amenity, highway safety, or the character of the area. Park planners will consider the application at a future date.
